Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft is nearing a potential launch this year, according to Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg. Following a "Type A" mishap classification for its previous crewed flight, NASA and Boeing have been addressing deficiencies, primarily in the propulsion system.

Ortberg stated that the redesign "is going quite well," and the main hurdle now is scheduling a cargo flight to the International Space Station with NASA, ensuring an open docking port. This suggests a launch could occur in 2024. If successful, a crewed mission might follow in late 2027.

Delays have already cost Boeing approximately $2 billion in charges. The potential return of Starliner coincides with uncertainties surrounding SpaceX's Crew Dragon availability beyond 2030, creating a complex landscape for future low-Earth orbit transportation.